Fórsa’s response to media reports that Gardaí would be training “park rangers” to tackle wildlife crime was published in the Irish Times earlier this week. It was a response to an article published on 19th January 2021.
Fórsa official Seán Carabini, who has responsibility for the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) branch, noted that the article contained a number of factual errors.
He said that, while additional support and training was welcome, law enforcement was already the core function of NPWS conservation rangers.
“For this purpose, conservation rangers (not park rangers) are appointed as Authorised Persons under the Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2018, Authorised Officers under the E.C. Birds and Natural Habitats Regulations 2011, Authorised Officers under the EC Birds and Natural Habitats - in the Restrictions on the Use of Poison Bait; Regulations 2010 and Authorised Persons under the E.C. Wildlife Act, 1976 (Amendment) Regulations 1986. These are serious and onerous functions,” he said.
Seán also pointed out that NPWS conservation rangers are the lead investigators in matters of wildlife crime law. The ranger detects the alleged offense, investigates the alleged offense, and based on the strength of the evidence, is the person who prepares the prosecution files.
“Rangers have already done this on numerous occasions. The prosecutions are there to prove it. And they will continue to carry out their law enforcement duties. It appears that the article referred to overlook these facts,” said Seán.
Across the country, NPWS conservation rangers enjoy a productive and co-operative relationship with the Gardaí.
“The Gardaí have, in many instances, prevented a breach of the peace during law enforcement operations. The Gardaí have a lot on their plate.
Despite this, when called on by the NPWS, the Gardaí have been there when it mattered. And we commend them for it,” said Seán.
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